Queens of the Age of Chivalry: England’s Medieval Queens

Historian and novelist Weir follows up Queens of the Crusades with this solid third volume in her series on medieval England’s queens. Focusing on the period between 1299 and 1409, Weir spotlights Marguerite of France (wife of Edward I), Isabella of France (wife of Edward II), Philippa of Hainault (wife of Edward III), Anne of Bohemia (first wife of Richard II), and Isabella of Valois (second wife of Richard II). Detailed and immersive profiles humanize these women, showcasing their range of personalities and experiences, from “peacemaker” Marguerite; to Isabella of France, who raised an army to depose her husband; to Isabella of Valois, who married Richard II at age six and was widowed by age 10. In the most evocative segment, Weir seeks to banish the perception of Isabella of France as a “she-wolf,” depicting her as a flawed woman who nonetheless exhibited extraordinary courage and resourcefulness in toppling Edward, whose relationships with Hugh le Despenser and other male advisers caused turmoil in their relationship and between England and France. Throughout, Weir focuses on broader themes of chivalry that shaped the era’s alliances and debunks the most scandalous court gossip. The result is a thorough and illuminating survey of the Plantagenet dynasty. (Dec.)